2 alleged Daulah Islamiyah members die in South Cotabato clash

Polomolok, South Cotabato (Wikipedia maps)

MANILA, Philippines — Two suspected members of the Daulah Islamiyah were killed during an armed encounter with government troops in Polomolok town in South Cotabato on Monday, the military reported on Tuesday.

Western Mindanao Command Chief Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. said that the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion and members of the Daulah Islamiyah figured in a five-minute firefight in Barangay Lapu.

The killed rebels were identified as Zypol Nilong and Salahuddin Usman.

“Based on the report from the ground, troops were conducting clearing operations when they chanced upon heavily armed men believed to be members of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maguid Group,” Rosario said in a statement.

“The enemies then withdrew bringing along other casualties with them,” Rosario added.

Troops recovered two M16 rifles, 90 rounds of 5.56-mm Ball ammunition, a rifle grenade, improvised explosive device components, communications equipment, and other items.

The military said the recovered remains of Nilong and Salahuddin were turned over to the village officials of Barangay Lapu for proper disposition while the recovered firearms and other materials were placed under the custody of the 3rd Scout Ranger Company for safekeeping.

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JPV